Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner and I have a fun, simple recipe to share with you for your fiesta.

I’ve always been a fan of a 7-layer bean dip for any party I host. For twenty-some years, I have been making a whole batch in one large serving bowl. This year, I thought, not only would it be cute to make individual cups but it would be especially appropriate, as we are still dealing with the pandemic, to make everyone feel safe by not having to share from the same serving bowl.

Here’s what you need for your 7 layers:

(Serves 6)

6 – 9 oz. clear punch party cups

1 to 2 bags nacho chips

16 oz. can of refried beans

1/2 packet Old El Paso taco seasoning (or in a pinch you can blend your own seasoning with about 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of each of the following spices depending on your guests’ tastebuds:  chile powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes)

4 oz. can chopped green chiles

16 oz. jar salsa

14 oz tub of sour cream (I prefer using fat-free Greek yogurt)

8 oz. package sharp shredded cheddar cheese

3 cups shredded iceberg lettuce

1 large tomato diced

1 jalapeno sliced into circles and de-seeded

8 oz. tub of prepared guacamole or if you want to make your own you can try this quick recipe:

2 ripe avocados

1 1/2 limes

1/4 cup diced onion

2 tbsp chopped cilantro

1 tsp minced garlic

1 tsp salt

In a medium bowl, mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt. Mix in onion, cilantro, and garlic. Refrigerate 1 hour for best flavor, or serve immediately.

Back to the bean dip:

Start by mixing the can of refried beans with 1 cup water, taco seasoning mix and canned green chiles. Stir and let seasonings blend into the beans until water evaporates.

Once water is evaporated and beans have thickened up again, split bean mixture into 6 individual cups as the first layer. Follow on top with a layer of guacamole about 1/2″ high, next follow with a layer of sour cream (or Greek yogurt) about 1/2″ high, next layer another 1/2″ of salsa, sprinkle the shredded lettuce among the 6 cups. Next, sprinkle all 6 cups with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

Sprinkle the diced tomatoes on top and add 1 jalapeno slice as a garnish.

I placed a nacho chip in each cup right before serving so everyone would know exactly what to do with their personalized 7-layer bean dip cup.

Make sure to have plenty of nacho chips out in bowls for your guests!

For more great recipes and party ideas, check out our week’s worth of content!

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